Press Releases

Air Quality Alert - Health Advisory

PROVIDENCE – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is predicting that air quality will once again reach UNHEALTHY levels statewide during the afternoon and late into the evening on Monday, June 12. The very warm weather along with favorable conditions for ozone formation will result in unhealthy air quality, which may continue into Tuesday. The poor air quality will be due to elevated ground level ozone concentrations. Fine particles are anticipated to reach near MODERATE levels statewide. Ozone is a major component of smog and is formed by the photochemical reaction of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles, industry and other sources in the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.

Rhode Island residents can help reduce air pollutant emissions. Limit car travel and the use of small engines, lawn motors and charcoal lighter fuels. Travel by bus or carpool whenever possible, particularly during high ozone periods.

The Department of Health warns that unhealthy levels of ozone can cause throat irritation, coughing, chest pain, shortness of breath, increased susceptibility to respiratory infection and aggravation of asthma and other respiratory ailments. These symptoms are worsened by exercise and heavy activity. The children, elderly and people who have underlying lung diseases, such as asthma, are at particular risk of suffering from these effects. As ozone levels increase, the number of people affected and the severity of the health effects also increase.

To avoid experiencing these effects, limit outdoor exercise and strenuous activity and stay in an air-conditioned environment if possible during the afternoon through late into the evening hours, when ozone levels are highest. Schedule outdoor exercise and children's outdoor activities in the morning hours. Individuals who experience respiratory symptoms may wish to consult their doctors.

The unhealthy levels of ozone are expected to last as long as the hot sunny weather is present. The Rhode Island Chapter of the American Lung Association reminds people that "when you can't breathe nothing else matters."

Below are some ways that you can help contribute to lower ground level ozone levels and cleaner air: